Florida's defense trying to force more turnovers

GAINESVILLE — Florida's defense finished eighth in the nation in total defense last season, but there's one area where the unit truly struggled: takeaways.

After forcing just 14 turnovers in 2011, which ranked tied for 112th out of 120 teams in FBS, the Gators' defense has put an added emphasis on takeaways this spring.

"We're big on turnovers this year," safety Josh Evans said. "Last year, for us we were missing out on that, so that's what we're focusing on. They're pushing forward with that every day. That's real big. Our numbers were pretty low last year."

Cornerback Jaylen Watkins said the lack of turnovers last season were largely due to the team getting used to defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's defense, and being "a step slower" because of the learning curve. However, Watkins added, it's all second nature to the defenders now.

Just one week into practice, Evans and Watkins each said they have already noticed a difference when watching film, adding that the last couple of practices the defenses have come through with more big plays.

Wide receiver Andre Debose said defenders have been trying to strip the ball on every play, and although the defense's success against the offense has been "about even," he has seen young defensive backs like Watkins, Cody Riggs, Marcus Roberson and Louchiez Purifoy step up and make plays.

"A lot of DBs, they're pests, trying to get the ball out of you all the time," Debose said. "That's what the coach, he really stressed that he wants a lot of turnovers."

QUICK HIT

-- Debose said he had some minor offseason injuries in his core area that restricted his offseason workout regimen, but it "didn't knock me down too much."